Chicago Mayor Dodges Questions on Police Increase Amid Crime Debate

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson repeatedly declined to give a direct yes or no answer when asked on MSNBC whether increasing the number of police officers would make the city safer, emphasizing instead the importance of social programs such as affordable housing, mental health care, and youth employment. Despite persistent questioning by host Joe Scarborough, Johnson insisted that policing alone is an "antiquated approach" and that a multifaceted strategy combining law enforcement with social investments is necessary to address crime. Johnson referenced that Chicago had more police officers in the 1990s but still experienced high murder rates, suggesting that more officers by themselves do not reduce crime. President Donald Trump announced plans to send federal troops and National Guard members to Chicago to aid in reducing crime, a move opposed by Johnson and Illinois Democrats who advocate for investing in community programs. Johnson expressed willingness to collaborate on federal funding for social initiatives but remained evasive about accepting federal funds specifically to increase the police force. The exchanges highlighted ongoing tensions over crime strategies in Chicago amid its long-standing challenges with violence and homicide rates.